CES: Panasonic and LG Get Skype TVs

Skype is to be embedded into Internet connected HDTVs

Computer-ot-computer communications specialist, Skype, will be embedding into Internet-connected HDTVs, in a statement just released from CES in Las Vegas.

The new HDTVs will deliver familiar Skype features including:

• Free Skype-to-Skype voice and video calls

• Calls to landline or mobile phones at Skype’s low rates

• The option to receive inbound calls via a user’s online Skype number

• Skype voicemail, if it is set up

• Being invited to participate in voice conference calls with up to 24 other parties

• Support for up to 720p HD video calls, depending on the availability of high-speed broadband and a HD webcam

At CES, Skype announced partnerships with LG and Panasonic to offer Skype–enabled HDTVs. Skype software will be embedded into Panasonic’s line of 2010 VIERA CAST-enabled HDTVs and LG’s 26 new LCD and plasma HDTVs.

Both lines are expected to be available in mid-2010. Both LG and Panasonic will offer specially designed HD webcams that are optimised for Skype video calls as separate accessories that can be plugged into the televisions. These webcams support 720p HD and include special microphones and optics that can pick up sound and video from a couch-distance.

Skype recommends uninterrupted high-speed broadband of at least 1 Mbps symmetrical bandwidth to achieve 720p HD-quality video calls on either a PC or television.